Southport stabbings suspect Axel Rudakubana silent when asked to identify himself during hearing

ITV Granada's Anna Youssef reports from Liverpool Crown Court

The 18-year-old accused of killing three children in a knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class has appeared in court.

Axel Rudakubana, of Banks in Lancashire, appeared via videolink for a plea and trial preparation hearing at Liverpool Crown Court on Wednesday 13 November, but he was not asked to enter any pleas to the 16 charges he faces.

He appeared from HMP Belmarsh, seated with a single prison officer behind him and holding his grey sweatshirt over his face with his left hand.

The teenager, who was born in Wales, did not speak as he was twice asked to identify himself as the hearing began, watched by around 20 family members of the victims sitting in the public gallery.

Mr Justice Goose told the court the defendant had “chosen” not to say anything and ordered a further preparatory hearing ahead of the trial to take place on 12 December.

He added: “It is important the court and the public know what the issues are in this trial and the 12th of December hearing will allow that.”

As he remanded the defendant in custody, he addressed Rudakubana directly.

He said: “Mr Rudakubana can you hear me? Just raise your hand if you can hear me.” The defendant did not respond.

The judge continued: “Well I know you can hear me because the officer behind you said I can be heard.

"You are next required to attend on the twelfth of December. Your trial will be listed for the 20th of January, with a time estimate of four to six weeks. Thank you.”

The defendant is charged with three counts of murder, 10 of attempted murder, possession of a knife, production of biological toxin, ricin, and possession of information likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing to commit an act of terrorism.

Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, Bebe King, six, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, died following the attack at at Taylor Swift-themed dance class at The Hart Space on a small business park in the seaside town shortly before midday on July 29.

The attempted murder charges relate to eight children, who cannot be named for legal reasons, instructor Leanne Lucas and businessman John Hayes.

The hearing is continuing with legal and administrative matters which cannot be reported ahead of his trial, set for January next year.